Question:
I just realized a few days ago that I have genital herpes. I am so depressed, and I just don't know what to think. It all started out with just a sore that looked like a paper cut. I thought the "cut" was just the result of rough sex. Oh, how I wish that were true! A few days later I noticed that the "paper cut" had become extremely swelled and that there were other bumps starting as well. I am in so much pain....I have never been in so much pain in all my life. I have been extremely healthy my entire life. I have never been so sick or ill that I've had to go to the hospital, and I've never broken any bones. Now that I'm feeling these extreme amounts of pain I just don't know how to handle it.

What makes things even worse is that I work retail, and am on my feet for 8 hours a day. I'm always walking around, only sitting down for my half-hour lunch break. I know that the friction is not only making things more painful, it is also probably making it worse, as well as taking it longer to heal.

The past two days were extremely painful for me. It hurts to walk around, bend over, and it's extremely painful for me to use the restroom. I haven't been drinking much lately to eliminate some of that pain.

I want to take time off from work, but I don't know what kind of excuse to give. I can't and won't tell my bosses the truth. I am SO mortified. I at least know that they will know when I do take time off that something is really wrong with me. In the past five years, I have only called in from work once. I am dedicated to my job, and it will make me feel bad to miss work...but so much pain.

I am too embarrased to go to the doctor until I heal up a little more....so for now I have no comfort except for Vicadin, which doesn't last very long at all. I just ordered H-balm for overnight Fex-Ed shipping....so hopefully that helps as much as it says it does. If it does, I'll let you know. It's non-prescription, and less embarrasing that picking something up from the pharmacy.

Answer:
I'm so sorry you're going through this! I'm newly diagnosed as well and it's been really hard trying to accept it and get through the day. I know how your feeling and it sucks, but I want to tell you that if you're in a lot of pain then you should definately go to the doctor... I work at a GYN facility and have seen many people come and go with new STD infections. I never felt anything but sympathy and compassion for them and so did my co-workers - so don't be embarassed - it happens all the time and do the best people!!

Also, your doctor has probably seen it all - so I wouldn't be so embarassed about going to have it looked at.

If you're worried about going to the pharmacy to pick up a prescription, ask if the doctor might have some samples of the med you need to save you the embarassment. Also, maybe a close friend or family member who knows about this would be willing to pick it up for you...
I'm not on medication right now only because my symptoms are not bad (I barely feel it), but know that if I did hurt really bad, I would go on them.
(Everyone has to work and keep up with their responsibilities right?) And I don't know how I could handle all that, the knowledge that I'm newly diseased AND being in so much pain all at once!

Also, this thing has completely changed my life. I used to drink 8 cups a coffee a day, eat unhealthy things, and drink frequently. Now I've quit everything and have started eating much healthier and I feel better than I have in years! There are some positive things that can come out of this if you're willing to make the changes. Things ARE going to be ok - I promise - hang in there!! :)

Answer:
go to the doctor hun. soon as possible. they will give you meds to stop the pain and out break. it'll also stop anymore outbreaks during this episode. The doctors will not make you feel embarrassed. they know this sucks for you. I work 10 hours a day on my feet as well. I know your pain. get some long flowing skirts and dont wear undies.